Activities & Culture

Daily classroom experience and living with a local family are both very effective ways to improve your Spanish. But here at Ixbalanque we believe it is equally important to immerse the student in the culture, both ancient and modern, of Copán.

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With that goal in mind, we offer our students access to the most recent archeological, sociological, and anthropological information about Maya culture. We arrange lectures delivered by experts in the following fields:

Archeology Anthropology Ethnic groups of Honduras Social themes of Honduras Our on-site travel agent, Orquídea Tours, can also arrange a variety of eco-activities to explore the sublime natural beauty of the Copán valley.

The Maya Ruins This magnificent World Heritage Site is less than a mile from the town. Immerse yourself in the lore and mystery of one of the only five cultures in world history to develop a written language. We will arrange for the most knowledgeable guides to tour you through these haunting and majestic ruins. If you wish, we can arrange in advance for you to attend conferences or lectures given by renowned academicians and scientists. No other Spanish school can offer such intimate access to such a stunning cultural landmark.

"The site of this unexpected monument put at rest at once and forever, in our minds, all uncertainty in regard to the character of American antiquities, and gave us the assurance...that the people who once occupied the Continent of America were not savages." -John Lloyd Stephens, Incidents of Travel in Central America, Chiapas, and Yucatán, 1841

The school periodically arranges student visits to other important archeological sites in the Copán Valley. You will be accompanied by experienced guides, and will meet distinguished professionals in history and archeology who are directly involved in the most current scientific explorations.

Adventures in Finca Heliconias Visit this local ranch, where you can learn about the coffee-making process, and enjoy beautiful plants and flowers.

The Indigenous Culture One of the most fascinating aspects of modern Copán is its indigenous culture. Their customs, religion, history, and unique traits meaningfully enrich the cultural and social structure of Copán.

Ixbalanque organizes informative and educational tours to these indigenous communities. These tours give our students an incredible opportunity to make contact with the direct descendants of the ancient Maya who built the Mayan empire. These indigenous people will share with our students the socio-cultural and culinary traditions that have been preserved to this day. On top of that, these visits help strengthen the bonds of friendship and solidarity among the indigenous communities of Honduras.

Eco-activities The rich ecological diversity of the Copán region offers our students the opportunity to connect with nature in a variety of pleasurable ways. Many ecological wonders are within easy reach of the school. Walk or ride a horse in the mountains or along the Copán River. Hike to hidden villages that time forgot. Visit refreshing waterfalls and hot springs. Without a doubt, your Copán experience will be enriched by enjoying the spectacular natural endowment of this region.

Dance classes

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